Action Plan
for the Development and Implementation
of the Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina
for the period 2014-2020
CONTENTS
1. ABBREVIATIONS …………...……………………………………………..............…………………………………………………
2. ...................................................................................................................................... I
NTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................
3. ...................................................................................................................................... G
LOSSARY .....................................................................................................................................
4. ...................................................................................................................................... V
ISION ...........................................................................................................................................
5. ...................................................................................................................................... M
ISSION..........................................................................................................................................
6. GOALS...........................................................................................................................................
7. SWOT ANALYSIS............................................................................................................................
8. ...................................................................................................................................... A
CTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................................
a. Package 1 Designing the QFBIH
.................................................................................................................... ...................
b. Package 2 Testing the QFBIH
...............................................................................................................................................
c. Package 3 Development of the QFBIH and
its Implementation
...............................................................................................................................................
d. Package 4 Development of human potential and quality assurance of the implementation
of the QFBIH Action Plan ...........................................................................................................
e. Package 5 Review and further development of the QFBIH ......................................................
f. Table of activities...................................................................................................................
9. Members of the Commission for the Development of the
QFBIH................................................................................................................................................ ..
10. BASELINE QUALIFICATIONS FRAMEWORK IN BIH ........................................................................
ABBREVIATIONS
APOSO
BD
BiH
CIP
CoE
EC
ECVET
EKO (English: EQF)
ENIC/NARIC
ENQA
EQAR
EQAVET
ESCO
EU
ETF
EUA
HEA
HEAARS
QF BiH
MCA
NKO
NPP
NQF
QF-EHEA
RS
UNESCO
VŠU (English: HEI)
Agency for Pre-primary, Primary and Secondary education
Brcko District
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in Higher
Education
Council of Europe
European Commission
European system of credit points in vocational education and training
European Qualifications Framework
European Network of Information Centres in the European
Region/National Academic Recognition Information Centres
European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education
European Quality Assurance Register for Higher Education
European Quality Assurance System in Vocational Education and
Training
European system of skills , competences / qualifications and occupations
European Union
European Training Fund
European University Association
Agency for the Development of Higher Education and Quality Assurance
in BiH
Agency for the Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions in RS
Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ministry of Civil Affairs
State Qualifications Framework
Teaching Curriculum
State Qualifications Framework
Qualifications Framework of the European Higher Education Area
Republika Srpska
United Nations Education, Science and Culture Organisation
Higher Education Institutions
1. Introduction
The rapid development of modern technology and markets in Europe and aging population have created
numerous challenges for the education systems of European Union member states, as well as those that
wish to join the EU – including Bosnia and Herzegovina. One of the main requirements is the necessity of a
systemic appraisal of education and training in each state and its comparison with education systems in
other countries through common European reference meta-frameworks: the European Qualifications
Framework for Lifelong Learning and the European Higher Education Area.
The necessity for education to prepare experts, who can respond successfully to the continuously changing
economic challenges and the dynamic labour market, terminates definitely the view of education as a
single, initial period of life, which has a its beginning, end and application stage. In modern times, education
becomes a lifelong process.
Following several years of preparation, in April 2008, the European Parliament and the Council of the
European Union adopted the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning, in order to promote
mobility and lifelong learning for all European citizens. A proposal to amend and expand the role of the
European Qualifications Framework followed in May 2013, primarily in the purpose of supporting and
accelerating the implementation of national qualification frameworks, and assisting the development and
implementation of evaluation and recognition of non-formal and informal learning in EU member states.
The European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning is aimed at facilitating the recognition and
comparison of qualifications, thereby facilitating citizens’ mobility, the establishment of a lifelong learning
concept and quality assurance for education and acquired qualifications. The strategic goal of the European
Qualifications Framework is to ensure that the qualifications acquired by the citizens meet the social and
economic needs of individual countries and the European Union as a whole. This includes quality assurance
for all qualifications, access to education for all citizens, and horizontal and vertical
advancement/progression through the education system.
The European Qualifications Framework introduces eight common reference levels, described through a
generic presentation of the complexity of knowledge, skills and competences, achieved on the basis of
learning outcomes. The eight levels include all types and classes of qualifications and all learning modes.
They serve as an instrument for recognition, understanding and comparison of qualifications on the basis of
quality, within EU countries and beyond.
Understanding the significance of the European Qualifications Framework for its further socio-economic
reform, and its education reform in particular, Bosnia and Herzegovina is undertaking activities aimed at
developing its Qualifications Framework. The Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina has adopted a
series of decisions, which are necessary for the development of a Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and
Herzegovina.
On 24 March 2011, the BiH Council of Ministers rendered the Decision on Adoption of the Baseline of the
Qualifications Framework in BiH. On 11 January 2013, it rendered the Decision on the Appointment of a
Commission for the Development of the Qualifications Framework in BiH. The Commission was tasked to
develop and propose a work plan for all major activities related to the development of a Qualifications
Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
2. Glossary
European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning (EQF) - an instrument for the establishment of
levels of qualifications, structured to act as a means of identifying and understanding qualifications among
national qualifications frameworks.
National Qualifications Framework (NQF) - an instrument for the classification of qualifications acquired in
a particular country, which provides the basis for clarity, accession, progression, acquisition and quality of
qualifications.
Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina (QFBIH) - an instrument for the classification of
qualifications acquired in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which provides the basis for clarity, accession,
progression, acquisition and quality of qualifications.
Qualifications Framework for the European Higher Education Area (QF-EHEA)- a document adopted by the
Conference of European Ministers of Education, held in Bergen in 2005. It defines the generic descriptors
for each of the three cycles of higher education and it is applied in all signatory states to the Bologna
Process.
Qualifications - a formal title of the result of a process of assessment and validation obtained once a
competent body determines that an individual has achieved the learning outcomes as per the defined
standards.
Learning outcomes – a description of what a student/learner knows, understands and is able to perform on
the basis of a completed learning process, defined through knowledge, skills and competences.
International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) - an international standard classification of
education.
Knowledge – a set of facts, principles, theories and practices, which are related to a particular field of work
or study, resulting from the adoption of information through the learning process. Within the context of the
European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning, knowledge is described as theoretical and/or
factual.
Skills - the ability to apply knowledge and use the “know how” principle to perform a certain task. They
help in the problem solving process aimed at solving a problem. Skills can be cognitive (including the use of
logical, intuitive and creative thinking), practical (including physical agility and use of methods, materials,
devices and instruments) and social (communication and cooperation skills, emotional intelligence, etc.)
Competence - the ability to apply knowledge, skills and personal, social and methodological abilities at
work or while learning, both in private and in professional development. Within the context of the
European Qualifications Framework, competences are described as responsibility and independence.
Lifelong Learning- linking formal, non-formal and informal learning in order to acquire the ability for
continuous improvement of quality of life.
Formal Education- learning led by a teacher or an instructor, acquired in educational institutions and in
accordance with curricula approved by responsible education authorities. It ends with the awarding of an
official document.
Non-formal Education/ Learning - an organised process of learning and education focused on improving,
specialising or amending knowledge, skills and competences in accordance with special programmes
implemented by education and training providers (regular schools, training centres, companies, agencies,
etc.)
Informal Learning – spontaneous learning and acquiring of knowledge and skills through everyday
activities.
Inclusive Education - the right of every person to equal opportunity during education. This particularly
includes the right of children with developmental difficulties and gifted children to develop their potential
to the maximum through support which includes flexible programmes, adequately prepared teachers,
expert support and welcoming, aimed at developing tolerance, acceptance of differences and later social
inclusion.
Validation of Non-formal and Informal Learning - a series of procedures aimed at assessing the
competences acquired through non-formal or informal learning, including the issuance of a certificate by a
responsible institution in accordance with pre-defined and accepted criteria and standards.
Quality Assurance - a system and procedures applied in order to preserve the agreed standards of products
and services, including their continued improvement.
Workload - the estimate time for all learning activities, which is necessary for the achievement of certain
learning outcomes.
Credit point - a measurement unit for the range/volume of competences acquired. It is determined on the
basis of the average total time successful students/learners require for acquiring such competences.
Example: ECTS point (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) in higher education.
Level Indicators/ Descriptors - a generic description of learning outcomes of a particular level.
Reference Level of Qualification - the complexity of competences acquired, which is described by a set of
descriptors.
Qualification Standard – the standard which establishes the conditions for the acquisition of an official
document on a particular qualification. It includes all data necessary for determining the level, the credit
points and the profile of a qualification, as well as data required for quality assurance of the qualification
standard.
Occupational Standard - a list of all jobs which an individual performs within a particular occupation and a
list of competences required for their successful performance.
3. Vision
The Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina (QFBiH) will allow every citizen the acquisition of
identifiable, reliable and recognised qualifications, which are comparable to the European Qualifications
Framework (EQF. It will provide access to lifelong learning, increase competitiveness and social inclusion
and enable links to the European labour market and education area. It will also contribute to the
development of an education system linked to the labour market, as well as economic and social
development of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
4. Mission
The Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina establishes and develops reliable and identifiable
qualifications, based on quality and lifelong learning, relevant for the labour market and comparable to
qualifications in other countries in Europe and the world.
The implementation of the Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina supports the development
of education based on learning outcomes and a system of internal and external quality assurance at all
levels of education, mechanisms for the evaluation and recognition of non-formal and informal learning,
increased access to education, social inclusion of all participants and coherence of the education system.
Through the introduction of transparent qualifications within eight levels, the Qualifications Framework in
Bosnia and Herzegovina builds public confidence in the value of education documents and contributes to
easier employability.
The Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina creates the conditions for the society’s progress
towards European integration by fulfilling the goals of the EU 2020 Strategy through increased mobility,
flexibility and competitiveness of the labour force, and better links between the education system and the
labour market, thereby allowing the citizens a European and regional progression of their qualifications.
5. Goals
The Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina is an instrument necessary for assuring equal use
and application of standards: education and occupations, learning outcomes, qualifications, professional
competence and certification of education service providers. The Qualifications Framework determines the
standards of learning outcomes expected from students and adults that acquired a certain qualification. At
the same time, the Qualifications Framework guarantees equality and reliability of qualifications both for
the employers and for the learners.
The general goals of the Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina are identified through four
key lines of action:
1. Linking, facilitating communication and creating partnerships between all the relevant
stakeholders;
2. Linking with the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning (EQF) and the
Qualifications Framework for the European Higher Education Area (QF-EHEA), and consequently
with the qualifications frameworks of other countries. This creates the basis for simpler recognition
of BiH qualifications in other countries and recognition of qualifications from other countries in BiH;
3. Reform of the BiH education system, including development and introduction of learning outcomes
into the curricula, establishment and improvement of the quality assurance system, relating to the
needs of the labour market, mobility and other needs of individuals and the society;
4. Development of a system of evaluation and recognition of non-formal and informal learning within
the lifelong learning process.
The specific goals of the Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina are:
 Understanding different types of qualifications and their relationships;
 Comprehensible presentation of education achievements to employers, learners and parents;
 Guiding individuals in the selection of education and career; facilitating mobility and more
transparent access to education throughout the life of an individual;
 Facilitating identification and recognition of national qualifications abroad and of foreign
qualifications in Bosnia and Herzegovina ;





Creating the pre-conditions for introducing a quality assurance system for existing and new
qualifications;
Contributing to quality employability;
Creating the pre-conditions for the development of a system of evaluation and recognition of
competences acquired through non-formal and informal education / learning;
Improvement of co-operation with all social partners;
Promoting education.
6. SWOT Analysis
In the purpose of an easy preparation of all activities related to the achievement of pre-defined general and
specific objectives, it is very important to analyse all internal and external, as well as positive and negative
factors, during the development of project tasks. An analysis of all internal strengths and weaknesses in
BiH, as well as external opportunities and threats, is presented in the table below:
ADVANTAGES / STRENGTHS
 Expressed political will and BIH commitment to
develop a qualifications framework
 Existence of starting documents required for
further work
 QFBiH Commission appointed by the Council of
Ministers of BiH
 Long tradition and huge experience in
implementing formal programmes in general,
vocational and higher education
 Experience in implementing the Bologna process
 Existence of good examples of internal and
external quality assurance systems
 Involvement in international activities and
projects
 Involvement in the work of European bodies
which coordinate the development and
implementation of qualifications frameworks
 Reform of all curricula based on learning
outcomes
 Existence of examples of learning outcomes,
occupational standards and qualifications
standards.
WEAKNESSES / SHORTCOMINGS
 Learning outcomes not visible enough to the
user
 Formal education still mainly based on “input”
(contents) and not on learning outcomes
 Rare good examples of implementation of
learning outcomes
 Insufficient involvement of competent persons
from BiH in the education reform process
 Insufficient flexibility of the formal education
 Insufficient level of development of internal
and external quality assurance systems at
levels of education
 Absence of a system of evaluation and
recognition of informal and non-formal
learning
 Insufficient experience/practices in
certification of education service providers
 Insufficient links between the education sector
and the labour market
OPPORTUNITIES
 EU and other financial and expert assistance in
the development of a qualifications framework
 Awareness of the need to reform education,
develop a transparent quality assurance system
 Awareness of the need for an increased mobility
of citizens and lifelong learning
 Awareness of the need for better links with
employers and other stakeholders, and for the
THREATS
 Formal education which is not based on
learning outcomes
 Insufficient willingness of key stakeholders to
transform education towards a knowledgebased society
 Most of the key stakeholders still perceive the
process of development and implementation
of a qualifications framework as a purely





development of mutual partnerships in the
interest of all
Awareness of the need for better international
identification and comparability of qualifications
from BiH
Existence of good regional links and support, as
well as possibilities for further co-operation
Good co-operation with international experts,
particularly those coming from countries with
experience in developing and implementing
qualifications frameworks
Availability of good and bad practice examples
from other countries
Influence and positive pressure resulting from
international student and teacher mobility






bureaucratic process
Presence of interest-based groups which are
slowing down the process of development and
implementation of a qualifications framework
Lack of confidence of individuals, groups and
institutions towards frequent education
reforms
Insufficient understanding and absence of
adequate capacities of the business sector for
the development of a qualifications framework
Lack of information and lack of understanding
among students, parents, employers and the
public about the benefits of a qualifications
framework
Impact of the economic situation
Absence / inability to provide adequate
financial means for the development and
implementation of a qualifications framework
7. Activities
The implementation of all activities towards the achievement of the above goals and adequate results will
be conducted through a series of activities, organised in five major activity packages (P1-P5), as follows:
Activity Package 1
P1.
1
Designing the QFBiH
A. Designing and linking all components / elements of QFBiH:
i. Analysis of EU instructions / conclusions and experiences from other countries in
developing and implementing qualifications frameworks (their strengths, weaknesses,
challenges and solutions) and learning about the current solutions in BiH
ii. Defining, developing and incorporating domains of learning outcome (knowledge, skills,
competences) into the curricula
iii. Designing the structure of sets of learning outcomes1
iv. Defining characteristics for the classification of qualifications
v. Defining workloads, credit points and learning outcomes2
vi. Designing the structure and the contents of qualification standards
vii. Designing the structure and the content of occupational standards
viii. Designing the basic structural elements of education / study programmes
ix. Designing the structure of the BiHQF website
x. Links with the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning (EQF) and the
Qualifications Framework for the European Higher Education Area, in the interest of
identification and recognition of BiH qualifications abroad and of foreign qualifications in
BiH
In the future, learning outcomes and sets of learning outcomes should be carefully elaborated, as key elements of a
qualifications framework.
2
See Annex: Baseline of the QF in BIH
B.
Defining processes / procedures and inclusion of relevant implementing bodies
i. Education and learning (formal, non-formal, informal)
ii. Examination and grading
iii. Awarding qualifications
iv. Developing a proposal of qualification standards, occupational standards and programmes
v. Recognition of previous learning, including evaluation of non-formal and informal learning
vi. Evaluation, accreditation, licensing
vii. Quality assurance (internal and external: of education, examination and grading, awarding
of qualifications, evaluation of occupational and qualification standards, evaluation of the
programmes and work of institutions, accreditation and licensing of programmes and
institutions)
viii. Defining the role and responsibilities of implementing bodies (ministries, agencies, schools,
universities, boards, commissions, teams, etc.) in the purpose of greater employment
ix. Promoting co-operation of implementing bodies, labour market stakeholders and social
partners in the purpose of better quality employment and increased mobility
C. Developing examples and work instructions
i. Developing examples of all components / elements of the QFBiH
ii. Simulation of defined processes / procedures
iii. Developing instructions for the work of implementing bodies, including instructions for
internal and external quality assurance of all processes / procedures
Activity Package 2
P2.
Testing the QF BiH:
A. Development of selected examples of occupational standards
i. Development of occupational standards and, for some examples, co-ordinated with the
development of qualification standards
B. Development of selected examples of qualification standards
i. Development of selected examples of qualification standards for all levels of the
Qualifications Framework, possibly for different profiles
C. Development of adequate education / study programmes
i. Development of adequate programmes in co-ordination with the development of
qualification standards
D. Testing processes / procedures of implementing bodies for selected examples
i. Process analysis and development of instructions for internal and external quality assurance
for all processes / procedures
E. Development and testing of the IT platform, including the QFBiH website
F. Analysis, testing and, if needed, changes and amendments to elements / components and
processes / procedures of implementing bodies
i. Analysis of the QFBiH and, if needed, changes and amendments to elements / components
and processes/procedures
ii. Analysis, grouping and proposing the structure of sector councils.
Activity Package 3
P3.
Development of QFBIH documents and implementation:
A. Developing proposals and adoption of legal documents at appropriate levels of authority
i. Decision on Changes and Amendments to the Decision on the Appointment of the QF BiH
Commission – adoption by the Council of Ministers of BiH
ii. Decision on the Adoption of the Action Plan for the Development and Implementation of
the QF BiH 2014-2020 – adoption by the Council of Ministers of BiH
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
iii. Decision on the Adoption of the QFBiH – adoption by the Council of Ministers of BiH
Improving the quality assurance system
i. Improve legislation related to quality assurance at all levels of education and qualification
(to be performed by: responsible education authorities)
ii. Adapt the existing internal and external quality assurance bodies (to be performed by:
responsible education authorities in co-operation with HEA, APOSO and education
institutions)
iii. Education and training of persons working in internal and external quality assurance bodies
Development and presentation of self-certification reports and referencing reports in relation
to EQF and QF-EHEA
i. Self-certification report for QFBiH in relation to QF-EHEA(to be performed by: the Ministry
of Civil Affairs (MCA), responsible education authorities, experts)
ii. Referencing report for QF BiH in relation to EQF (to be performed by: MCA, responsible
education authorities, experts as ordered by education authorities)
Establishment and adaptation of the work of relevant bodies (at appropriate levels) in the
purpose of implementing the QFBiH:
i. Establishing the QFBiH Implementation Council (to be performed by: authorities responsible
for education and employment, to be appointed by the Council of Ministers of BiH)
ii. Extension of the mandate of the QF BiH Commission and its adaptation to new tasks
iii. Establishing sector councils
Preparation of the IT base and website
(to be performed by: MCA in co-operation with relevant education and other authorities)
Developing occupational standards
i. Preparation of work and training of staff of relevant partners and bodies
ii. Co-ordinated development of occupational standards depending on strategic interests and
harmonised with the development of qualification standards
iii. Evaluation of proposals and enabling access through the QFBiH website
Developing qualification standards
i. Preparation of work and training of staff of relevant partners and bodies
ii. Co-ordinated development in relation to the development of occupational standards and
programmes
iii. Evaluation of proposals and enabling access through the QF BiH web page
Development of new and modernisation of existing education / study programmes
i. Preparation of work and training of staff of relevant partners and bodies
ii. Co-ordinated development in relation to the development of qualification standards
iii. Evaluation of proposals and enabling access through the website, including evaluation of
institutions implementing the programmes (accreditation and licensing)
Improving the system of recognition of foreign qualifications in BiH and national qualifications
abroad using the QFBiH in accordance with the principles of the Lisbon Convention and
accompanying documents
i. Improve legislation related to the recognition of foreign qualifications in BiH and to national
qualifications abroad (to be performed by: relevant education authorities)
ii. Adapt the existing bodies for recognition of foreign qualifications in BiH and national
qualifications abroad
iii. Education and training of staff working in bodes for recognition of foreign qualifications in
BiH and national qualifications abroad
Activity Package 4
P4.
Developing human resources and assuring quality of implementation of the Action Plan and the
QFBiH:
A.
Training
i. Training of staff of implementing bodes and partner institutions in BiH
ii. Determining criteria and selecting experts
iii. Training of experts
B. International co-operation and building of the reputation of the QF BiH
i. Active international co-operation, monitoring of and participation in the work of bodies in
Europe and monitoring of the work of other countries of interest
C. Dissemination of lifelong learning and the QFBiH
i. Promotion of lifelong learning to stakeholders and the public
ii. Open communication (via the website and other) with individuals and the public
iii. Dissemination and promotion of the QFBiH within BiH and in other countries and bodies in
Europe
D. Quality assurance of the implementation of the Action Plan and the QFBiH
i. Preparing reports on regular activities by all activity implementers
ii. Monitoring activities and preparation of periodic reports
iii. Submission of reports
Activity Package 5
P5.
Review and further development of the QFBiH:
A. Analysis of the level of success of the implementation of the QF BiH
i. Analysing the level of success in implementing the QF BiH (methods, parameters of success,
etc.)
ii. Drafting proposed changes and amendments to the QF BiH and relevant legal documents,
including draft proposals for the evaluation of non-formal and informal learning
B. Changes and amendments to the QF BiH-related documents
C. Implementation of the evaluation of non-formal and informal learning
i. Determining criteria, selection and training of experts
ii. Training representatives of relevant bodies, partner institutions
iii. Implementation of evaluation of non-formal and informal learning
D. Developing revised / amended self-certification and referencing reports
i. Revised / amended self-certification report on QF BiH in relation to the QF-EHEA
ii. Revised / amended referencing report on QF BiH in relation to the EQF.
Table of activities:
Activit
y
P1-A
P1-B
P1-C
P2-A
P2-B
P2-C
P2-D
P2-E
P2-F
P3-A
P3-B
P3-C
P3-D
P3-E
P3-F
P3-G
P3-H
P3-I
P4-A
P4-B
P4-C
P4-D
P5-A
P5-B
P5-C
P5-D
2014
x X X
x
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2015
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2018
2019
2020
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Activity
Activity Package: P1-Designing the QFBIH
P1-A
To be
Period:
Resources
performed
from-to
(people,
by:
(start and financial
(who takes
end of
means,
the lead,
work)
premises,
who
equipment)
participates)
QF BiH
Commission;
MCA and
relevant
ministries of
education
and labour;
HEI;
education
agencies 3
and
pedagogic
institutes;
employers’
associations
and labour
unions
01.2014- EU/CoE
12.2015 SDHEQS;
BHQFHE
TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors; BiH
institutions
budget;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2
Results of
previous
activities
(as a
precondition
for successful
further
implementation)

ction Plan
Results achieved
(indicate also the
activity that depends
on the result cited)


esults of
previous QF
BIH activities

esults of
previous
projects
A
verview and
description of QF
BiH Relements


O
T
emplate for
Learning Outcome
Sets
R
T
emplate for
Occupational
Standards

T
emplate for
Qualification
Standards

B
asic elements of
programme
structure

S
tructure of the QF
BiH website

O
verview of results
achieved in
developing QF BIH
aimed at
identification and
recognition of BiH
qualifications
P1-B
P1-C
QF BiH
Commission;
MCA and
relevant
ministries of
education
and labour;
HEI;
education
agencies 4
and
pedagogic
institutes;
employers’
associations
and labour
unions
QF BiH
Commission;
MCA and
relevant
ministries of
education
and labour;
HEI;
education
agencies 5
and
pedagogic
institutes;
employers’
associations
and labour
unions
09.2014- EU/CoE
12.2016 SDHEQS;
BHQFHE
TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors; BiH
institutions
budget;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2

09.2014- EU/CoE
12.2016 SDHEQS;
BHQFHE
TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors; BiH
institutions
budget;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2

Activity Package: P2-Testing of QFBIH
ction Plan
abroad and foreign
qualifications in
BiH

A
O
verview and
description of all
processes /
procedures and
inclusion of
relevant bodies

R
eport on
partnerships
established and
promoting further
development

ction Plan

orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, B

orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C,
D, E, F
A
xamples of QF BiH
elements

W
imulation of
processes /
procedures

nstructions for the
work
Wof
implementing
bodies
E
S
I
Activity
P2-A
P2-B
P2-C
P2-D
To be
Period:
Resources
performed
from-to
(people,
by:
(start and financial
(who takes
end of
means,
the lead,
work)
premises,
who
equipment)
participates)
QF BiH
06.2014- EU/CoE
Commission; 06.2016 SDHEQS;
HEI; education
BHQFHE
agencies6;
TEMPUS;
relevant
IPA 2012;
ministries;
Int'l
professional
donors; BiH
associations;
institutions
chambers;
budget;
projects and
national
schools
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2
QF BiH
06.2014- EU/CoE
Commission; 06.2016 SDHEQS;
HEI; education
BHQFHE
agencies7;
TEMPUS;
relevant
IPA 2012;
ministries;
Int'l
professional
donors; BiH
associations;
institutions
chambers;
budget;
projects and
national
schools
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2
QF BiH
06.2014- EU/CoE
Commission; 12.2016 SDHEQS;
HEI;
BHQFHE
education
TEMPUS;
agencies8;
IPA 2012;
relevant
Int'l
ministries;
donors; BiH
professional
institutions
associations;
budget;
chambers;
national
projects and
and int'l
schools
experts and
IPA 2
QF BiH
06.2014- EU/CoE
Commission; 12.2016 SDHEQS;
relevant
BHQFHE
Results of
previous
activities
(as a
precondition
for successful
further
implementation)

orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, C

Results achieved
(indicate also the
activity that depends
on the result cited)

W
xamples of
occupational
standards
E

W
xamples of
qualification
standards
E

W
xamples of
education / study
programmes
E

W
nalysis of
processes /
A
orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, C

orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, C

orking
results and
ministries,
HEA; HEARS;
APOSO; HEI;
schools and
projects
P2-E
QF BiH
Commission;
TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors; BiH
institutions
budget;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2
01.2015- Int'l
12.2016 donors; IT
experts and
equipment
final results
of P1-A, B, C
procedures
planned


orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C

I
nstructions
for
W
internal and
external quality
assurance of all
processes /
procedures

orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, B, C

W
T base and QF BiH
website
I
W
orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C,
D, F

W
orking
results and
final results
of P3-A, B, D
P2-F
QF BiH
Commission;
MCA;
relevant
ministries of
education
and labour;
HEI;
education
agencies9;
employer
associations
and labour
unions
01.2015- EU/CoE
12.2016 SDHEQS;
BHQFHE
TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors; BiH
institutions
budget;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2


orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, B, C

orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B,C,
D, E
W
A
nalysis of
components and
processes /
procedures of QF
BiH W
and proposal
for changes and
amendments of QF
BiH, if needed

P
roposal of sector
councils
Activity Package: P3-Development of QF BIH Documents and Implementation
Activity
P3-A
To be
Period:
Resources
performed
from-to
(people,
by:
(start and financial
(who takes
end of
means,
the lead,
work)
premises,
who
equipment)
participates)
QF BiH
Commission;
MCA;
Council of
Ministers of
BiH
06.2014.
(adopt
decision
on
Commissio
n status);
Commissio
n
members;
national
experts;
projects
and MCA
06.2014
(adopt
Action
Plan);
P3-B
P3-C
12.2016
(adopt QF
BiH)
QF BIH
01.2015- EU/CoE
Commission; 12.2016 SDHEQS;
relevant
BHQFHE
authorities;
TEMPUS;
HEA; HEAARS;
IPA 2012
APOSO; RS
Int'l
Higher
donors,
Education
budgets at
Council;
appropriat
higher
e levels of
education
authority;
institutions;
national
schools
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2
HEA;
HEAARS;
APOSO;
MCA;
relevant
education
authorities;
experts and
QF BIH
Commission
01.2015- EU/CoE
12.2017 SDHEQS;
BHQFHE
TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors,
budgets of
appropriat
e levels of
authority;
Results of
previous
activities
(as a
precondition
for successful
further
implementation)

orking
results and
final results
of P1-A, B, C

orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C,
D, E, F

Results achieved
(indicate also the
activity that depends
on the result cited)

W
D
ecision on Changes
and Amendments
to the Decision on
the Establishment
of the
W Commission

D
ecision on the
Adoption of the
Action Plan

D
ecision on the
Adoption of QF BiH

orking
results and
final results
of P1-B, C

orking
results of
P2-D, F

orking
results and
final results
of P3-A

orking
results and
final results
of P1-B

orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C,
D, E, F
W
egislation related
to QA at all levels
of education

L
B
odies
Wadapted to
internal and
external QA

ducation
W and
training of staff in
bodies responsible
for internal and
external QA
systemscompleted

W
eport on the
improvement of
the QA system in
BiH

W
elf-certification
report

eferencing report
E
R
S
R
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2?
P3-D
Relevant
authorities
03.2014- National
12.2016 experts;
projects

W
orking
results and
final results
of P3-A, B


orking
results and
final results
of P1-C

orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C,
D, E, F
W
ouncil for QF BIH
Implementation
established

C
E
xtension
W and
adaptation of
mandate of QF BiH
Commission

E
stablishment of
sector
W councils

orking
results and
final results
of P3-A, B
P3-E
QF BiH
Commission
01.2016- Int'l
12.2017 donors; IT
experts and
equipment


esults of P1C

R
T platform and
QFBIH website
prepared
R
I
esults of P2E

R
esults of P3A, B, D
P3-F
P3-G
Sector
councils;
QF BiH
Commission;
Higher
education
institutions;
higher
education
agencies10;
relevant
ministries;
professional
associations;
chambers;
projects and
schools
Sector
councils;
QF BiH
Commission;
01.2016- BHQFHE
12.2020 TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors; BiH
institutions
budget;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2

01.2016- BHQFHE
12.2020 TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l


esults of P1C

R
ccupational
standards
R
O
esults of P2A, F

R
esults of P3A, B, D, E

esults under
P1-C
R
ualification
standards
Q
P3-H
P3-I
Higher
education
institutions,
agencies11;
relevant
ministries;
professional
associations;
chambers;
projects and
schools
donors,
budgets of
app. levels
of
authority,
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2

Higher
education
institutions;
schools;
education
agencies12;
pedagogical
institutes
and relevant
ministries
01.2016- BHQFHE
12.2020 TEMPUS;
IPA 2012
Int'l
donors,
budgets at
appropriat
e levels of
authority,
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2
01.2016- BHQFHE
12.2017 TEMPUS;
IPA 2012;
Int'l
donors,
budgets at
appropriat
e authority
level;
national
and int'l
experts and
IPA 2

Relevant
authorities
and CIP
R
esults f P2-B,
F

R
esults of P3A, B, D, E

esults of P1C

R
rogrammes
P
R
esults of P2C, F

R
esults of P3A, B, D, E


esults of P1C

esults of P2F

esults of P3A, B, C, D
R
I
mproved system of
recognition of
foreign
R
qualifications in
BiH and national
qualifications
R
abroad
Activity Package: P4- Developing human resources and quality assurance of the
implementation of the Action Plan and the QF BiH
Activity
P4-A
P4-B
To be
Period:
Resources
performed
from-to
(people,
by:
(start and financial
(who takes
end of
means,
the lead,
work)
premises,
who
equipment)
participates)
Projects (in
01.2014- EU/CoE
collaboration 12.2020 SDHEQS;
with the QF
BHQFHE
BIH
TEMPUS;
Commission),
IPA 2012
national
Int'l
experts;
donors;
education
national
institutions;
and int'l
labour unions
experts and
IPA 2
QF BIH
Commission
and QF BIH
Council
01.2014- EQF (ETF,
12.2020 European
Commission;
projects
etc.);
QF-EHEA
(CoE,
projects,
etc.)
and
support
through
other
related
initiatives
(ESCO,
EQAVET,
Europass,
ECVET,
etc.)
Results of
previous
activities
(as a
precondition
for successful
further
implementation)

orking
results and
final results
of P1-C

orking
results and
final results
of P2-A, B, C,
D, E, F

orking
results and
final results
of P3-A, B, C,
D, E, F, G, H,
I

ction Plan

ll working
results and
final results
Results achieved
(indicate also the
activity that depends
on the result cited)


W
orkshops for staff
of institutions
implementing QF
BiH and of partner
institutions
W
W
C
riteria for the
selection of
experts

W
orkshops
W for new
experts


A
ctive int'l
cooperation
A
A
P
articipation and
monitoring of work
of QF-EHEA bodies
(Network of NC on
QF-EHEA, BFUG,
ENIC /NARIC, ENQA,
EQAR, ERA, EUA,
EURASHE, UNESCOCEPES, regional
networks, etc.)

P
articipation and
monitoring of work
of EQF bodies
(National Contact
Points; Advisory
Group, etc.)

O
bservation and
exchange of
P4-C
QF BIH
01.2014- Projects
Commission; 12.2020 and int'l
QF BIH
donors
Council;
national
experts; HEA;
HEAARS;
APOSO; CIP;

ll working
results and
final results
The media
and the public
P4-D
QF BIH
Commission
01.2014- Donors;
12.2020 projects;
national
and int'l
experts

ction Plan

ll working
results and
final results
experiences during
development and
implementation of
NQF in other
countries in the
region and the EU

A
D
issemination of
importance of LLL
among all
stakeholders and
partners
(conferences,
round tables, etc.)

C
ommunication
with partners and
the public, using
modern
technologies

D
issemination of QF
BiH in BiH and in
other countries

N
ational and int'l
statements at
public events and
publications

A
E
stablishment and
operation
of
A
internal QA system
for the
implementation of
the Action Plan

M
onitoring and
regular reporting
on all activities and
results to relevant
bodies and the
public on the
development and
implementation of
QF BiH
Activity
Activity Package: P5-Review and further development of the QFBIH
P5-A
To be
Period:
Resources
performed
from-to
(people,
by:
(start and financial
(who takes
end of
means,
the lead,
work)
premises,
who
equipment)
participates)
QF BIH
Commission
All
implementer
s from P1 to
P4
01.2017- Donors;
12.2020 projects;
int'l and
national
experts
Results of
previous
activities
(as a
precondition
for successful
further
implementation)

ll working
results and
final results
Results achieved
(indicate also the
activity that depends
on the result cited)

A
efined methods
and success
parameters

R
eport on success
level analysis in
implementing QF
BiH in accordance
with defined
methods and
success
parameters

P5-B
P5-C
QF BIH
Commission;
relevant
authorities;
HEA;
HEAARS;APOS
O;RS Higher
Education
Council;
Higher
education
institutions;
schools
QF BIH
Commission;
quality
assurance
bodies;
education
D
01.2018- IPA 2012;
12.2019 Int'l
donors;
budgets at
relevant
levels of
authority;
National
and int'l
experts

01.2019- Donors;
12.2020 projects;
national
and int'l
experts and
education

orking
results and
final results
of P5-A
orking
results and
final results
of P5-A, B
roposed system of
evaluation of nonformal and
informal learning

W
hanges and
amendments to
legislation on QF
BiH including
incorporation of a
system of
evaluation of nonformal and
informal learning
into legislation at
different levels of
authority

W
riteria for the
selection of
experts

reparation and
P
C
C
P
institutions
institutions
implementation of
education and
training of experts
in relevant
institutions for the
implementation of
evaluation of nonformal and
informal learning

P5-D
HEA;
HEAARS;
APOSO;
MCA;
relevant
education
authorities;
experts and
QF BIH
Commission
01.2018- IPA
12.2020 2012;int'l
donors;
budgets at
relevant
levels of
authority;
national
and int'l
experts

esults under
P3-C

orking
results and
final results
of P4-D

S
tart of
implementation of
evaluation of nonformal and
informal learning

R
R
evised Selfcertification report

W
R
evised Referencing
report
W
orking
results and
final results
of P5-A, B, C
Further Tasks
The Baseline Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina has been given this title because it
represents the beginning of a long-term process of developing and establishing a qualifications framework
in our country. Even when we do have a qualifications framework in place, which contains a successful
synthesis of the strategic goals of the education system, its social partners and the society as a whole, we
will have to be aware that there cannot be a final qualifications framework because that framework is
subject to necessary change dictated by changes in the production systems and the introduction of new
technologies in particular.
The Baseline Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina represents our strategic commitment to
develop a qualification standard, which will enable our country faster socio-economic progress and the
sustainability of such progress.
In order to materialize our commitment, it is necessary to continue our work on the qualifications
framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina, both on its direct development and the anticipation of legal and
institutional preconditions for its practical implementation.
It is necessary that the qualifications are modern, that they are compatible with the labour market
requirements and that they are in accordance with international standards. This includes developing quality
assurance mechanisms for qualifications and a systemic definition of instruments for internal and external
quality evaluation, which should remove unacceptable differences in quality that currently exist in our
country.
That brings in the issue of accreditation of educational institutions offering qualifications. It is particularly
important that all activities equally involve all social partners and other relevant stakeholders in the field of
education. The ultimate goal is to develop a system that will enable BiH companies to get qualified workers
and facilitate the mobility of our workers in the European labour market.
One of the very important further activities is the development and establishment of a recognition system
for acquired knowledge, skills and competences through non-formal and informal learning. Apart from
projecting the infrastructure, regulating the procedures, methodologies and ways of certification of
previous learning, this new concept assumes resolving other issues. It primarily includes the need to
introduce a credit system in secondary education as well, based on the European system of credit transfer
in secondary vocational education (ECVET) and similar to the way the Bologna system regulated the issue in
higher education. Apart from that, it is necessary to begin the development of specific learning descriptors
for all occupations created on the basis of a generic framework, as well as to reform teaching curricula at all
education levels so that they can become the basic means of achieving defined learning outcomes. This
opens the issue of modularisation of curricula in secondary and higher education, redesigning the existing
and introducing new qualifications, as well as the issue of certifying and recognising partial qualifications
(this form already exists through the verification of knowledge of foreign languages and information
technologies).
The process of development of the Qualifications Framework in BiH necessarily implies activities related to
the adoption of international qualification standards, with ISCED among the first.
The Qualifications Framework in BiH should incorporate all forms of human resources development in our
country. Therefore, this is a long-term and serious task, which requires a predetermined approach and
accentuated ability to anticipate the times that will yet come.
The Baseline Qualification Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina represents the strategic commitment of
our country to develop and maintain a high standard of qualifications acquired through education in Bosnia
and Herzegovina.
The text above indicates only the important, basic activities, which we shall undertake in the forthcoming
period in order to establish and develop a qualifications framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Considering
the fact that this framework should establish an internationally recognised qualifications standard in Bosnia
and Herzegovina i.e. a new system, it is necessary to look at our legislation on education and analyse how it
corresponds with the mentioned requirements. It is also necessary to think through the institutional
preconditions for the implementation of the qualifications framework.
Bearing in mind that this is a long-term task, there is the a need for a rapid establishment of an
intersectoral commission, which will develop and recommend a work plan of all main activities within the
development of a qualifications framework in BiH (including methodology, standards, required resources,
timelines, operational teams, etc.)
The intersectoral Commission for the Development of a Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and
Herzegovina consists of 19 members-six from each of the constituent peoples and one representing the
minorities- with appropriate regional representation.
The Commission members should be representatives of the sectors of education, statistics, labour and
employment, employers, the academic community and other social partners.
The Commission should consist of representatives of the following sectors/institutions: five representatives
of the education sector (Ministry of Civil Affairs, - Education Sector; Federal Co-ordination of Ministers of
Education: two canton representatives; Ministry of Education and Culture of RS; Education Department of
the Government of the Brcko District of BIH); three representatives of the Rectors Conference of Bosnia and
Herzegovina; three representatives of education agencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Agency for Preschool, Primary and Secondary education; Agency for the Development of Higher Education and Quality
Assurance and the Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in Higher Education); three
representatives of the statistics sector (Agency for Statistics of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Federal Institute for
Statistics, Republic Institute for Statistics of Republika Srpska); three representatives of the sector for
labour and employment (Ministry of Civil Affairs – Section for Labour and Employment, Federal Ministry of
Labour and Social Policy, Ministry of Labour and Protection of Veterans and Disabled Persons of Republika
Srpska); one representative of employers in BIH (Association of Employers of Bosnia and Herzegovina) and
one representative of the labour unions (Confederation of Labour Unions of Bosnia and Herzegovina).
The Ministry of Civil Affairs is tasked with the implementation of the procedure for the appointment of the
Commission, based on the list of candidates proposed by responsible education and other authorities.
However, the Sector for Education of the Ministry of Civil Affairs will nominate its own representative to the
Commission.
The Commission shall render decisions on the basis of majority vote of the total number of members under
the condition that this majority includes a minimum of two thirds of votes from the representatives of each
constituent people.
The Commission shall elect its Chairperson by majority vote of the total number of members.
Upon the proposal of the Ministry of Civil Affairs (which has been previously approved by the Conference of
Education Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina), the Commission shall be appointed by the Council of
Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina with a mandate of one year.
In the future, learning outcomes and sets of learning outcomes should be carefully elaborated, as key
elements of a qualifications framework.
2
See Annex: Baseline of the QF in BIH
3
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
4
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
5
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
6
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
7
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
8
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
9
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
10
Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary education of BIH, Agency for the Development of Higher
Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the
Field of Higher Education, Republika Srpska Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions
11
Agency for the Development of Higher Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, Republika Srpska
Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions, Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary
education of BIH and BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the Field of Higher
Education
12
Agency for the Development of Higher Education and Quality Assurance of BIH, Republika Srpska
Agency for Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions, Agency for Pre-school, Primary and Secondary
education of BIH and BIH Centre for Information and Recognition of Documents in the Field of Higher
Education